Demonstration farms

Abstract

The study aimed to review the concept of demonstration farms as a source of information for landscape architects. A review of agricultural history and the history of demonstration farms provided the context to current development. A range of types of demonstration farms were identified. These are presented as ten case studies and formed the basis of the information discussed. Four objectives for demonstration, production, landscape, education and recreation were considered. Trends in the development of these objectives are discussed independently. Overseas developments of historic farms and city farms are examined. The characteristics and effectiveness of demonstrations are considered. In the development of school farms, historic farms and farms which explain farming to the public, opportunities for landscape architects are indicated. Farms demonstrating production and landscape objectives are drawn together suggesting new directions for their joint development.